Abstract: A novel xanthophyll esters concentrate including a composition containing lutein and zeaxanthin fatty acid esters wherein the composition contains by weight 90-95% of trans-lutein esters, 0-5% of cis-lutein esters and 3.5 to 6% of zeaxanthin esters. More particularly, a process is provided for the preparation of the above concentrate employing ketonic solvents. The novel trans-lutein enriched xanthophyll ester concentrate is useful for human consumption, either as nutraceuticals, as nutritional supplements, as food additives and also for coloring animal feeds. The concentrate has better stability and bioavailability.